Driving in Senegal: our tips for a safe trip

Driving in Senegal for the first time? Here are the essentials of the Senegal highway code and our Dakar driving tips for a smooth ride.

Driving in Senegal: the highway code in brief

Before driving in Senegal, first remember that traffic drives on the right. Indeed, the Senegal highway code is very similar to the European code. In addition, seat belts are compulsory and using a phone at the wheel is forbidden. Therefore, the Senegal highway code does not surprise drivers used to Europe.

Our Dakar driving tips

Dakar is a lively city, especially at rush hour. Here are our Dakar driving tips:

• First, anticipate stops by “cars rapides” (local minibuses) and taxis.
• Then, stay cautious at roundabouts, which are often very busy.
• In addition, leave room for pedestrians and street vendors.
• Finally, for stress-free driving in Senegal, avoid rush hour.

Therefore, these Dakar driving tips help you drive calmly. Prefer not to drive in the city? In that case, choose our rental with a driver.

Toll motorways and national roads

The toll motorway links Dakar to Blaise Diagne International Airport, Thiès and the Petite Côte. Moreover, the Ila Touba motorway runs from Thiès to Touba. So, bring some money for the tolls. Outside the motorways, national roads are generally passable. Therefore, motorway travel is easy.

Driving in Senegal on bush roads

On the tracks, animals and carts are common. Consequently, avoid driving at night outside the towns. In addition, the rainy season, from about July to October, damages some roads. For these journeys, a 4×4 is recommended.

Police checks and documents

Police checks are frequent. So always keep your licence, your ID and the rental contract on board. For the licence, read about foreign licences. Therefore, you can drive in Senegal with complete peace of mind.

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